A Friend for All Seasons
There wasn’t a time when the late, former State Representative Betty Boukus (D-Plainville, New Britain) wasn’t advocating for Wheeler and the individuals and families served by the organization. Ms. Boukus—who served for 22 years in the state legislature—supported Wheeler as a corporator and trustee, and was a steadfast champion for the expansion of its programs and services.
“Betty’s advocacy was crucial to our efforts to preserve access to behavioral health and other services for some of our community’s most vulnerable residents,” said Susan Walkama, LCSW, president and chief executive officer, Wheeler. “She always went above and beyond the call to help statewide leaders and others to understand the value of the work we do.”
A Passion for Education
Ms. Bokus’s early career as an elementary school teacher in Plainville may have fueled her interest in Wheeler’s programs. She was instrumental in sparking community connections that led to three projects at Northwest Village School (NVS), Wheeler’s therapeutic day school for special education students, ages 4-21. Ms. Boukus connected Wheeler with its Northwest Drive neighbor, Loureiro Engineering Associates. This connection led to the construction of two multi-dimensional play scapes, as well as an outdoor pavilion on the back grounds of the school. Jeff Loureiro, the company’s president, also served in various capacities on Wheeler’s board of trustees and continues to be an unwavering supporter. He served as chairman of the board from 2009-2013.
Supporting Creative Learning
Ms. Boukus worked closely with Governor Dannel Malloy, Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman and other state leaders to secure $2 million in state funding for expansion and renovation at Wheeler’s NVS in 2013. The project, also supported by contributions from local foundations, helped to create a state-of-the-art learning environment for students and included:
“Betty’s tireless work helped to bring this project to fruition and fill a critical need for our students,” said Walkama. “As a result of her efforts and the support of statewide leaders and local foundations, hundreds of students are growing and thriving in these beautiful, dynamic spaces.”
A Champion for Whole-Health Care
Ms. Boukus’s advocacy and support continued as Wheeler evolved into an integrated care delivery provider. Ms. Boukus, Governor Malloy and Lt. Governor Wyman played a significant role in helping Wheeler to secure a community health center grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to expand health care services at Wheeler’s federally qualified health center at 10 North Main Street Bristol. This center delivers primary and behavioral health care to meet the needs of residents in Bristol and surrounding communities. It is one of three community health centers operated by Wheeler.
Ms. Boukus was honored by Wheeler in 2010 with Positive Change Award, and in 2013 with a Gold Star Award at the organization’s Evening of Wonder gala. Shortly before her death in December 2016, she was also honored with an “All Heart” Award from Wheeler “with heartfelt appreciation for a lifetime of community service and passionate commitment to building healthier tomorrows.”
“We are eternally grateful for Betty’s support and guidance,” said Walkama. “She is a key part of our history, and because of her contributions, she will always be part of our future.”
